Towing Question

[alamantia]

I have a 2005 Z71 tahoe with the towing package and a 7 pin connector. I have to pick up a trailer this week that has electric brakes. I have never towed with my truck before. Stupid question here but to get the trailer breaks to operate, do I have to install a brake controler or does my truck already have one with the towing package? I am assuming I must first purchase and install a brake controller right?

 

[SunlitComet]

have a trailer specialist or dealer look for you to see if you have a controller installed. Just because the wiring provisions are there does not mean a controller is installed. you do need a controller to operate the trailer brakes and those brakes are needed for any trailer and load that exceeds 2000 pounds. So in case I did not make it clear enough, if you are just moving an empty trailer and it is less then a ton in weight you can do without a the trailer brakes.

 

[blrmkrl83]

You will need to get a brake controller. You can get adapters for them that will just plug into the truck below the dash on the drivers side. If it only weighs a couple thousand pounds you might be alright without brakes. If your not experienced at pulling a trailer though I would definately put in the controller before you pull it.

 

[M3PO]

have a trailer specialist or dealer look for you to see if you have a controller installed. Just because the wiring provisions are there does not mean a controller is installed. you do need a controller to operate the trailer brakes and those brakes are needed for any trailer and load that exceeds 2000 pounds. So in case I did not make it clear enough, if you are just moving an empty trailer and it is less then a ton in weight you can do without a the trailer brakes.

Great advice! I too would suggest getting professional help, there are trailer/towing shops that specialize in installing controllers, and making sure your truck is ready for the haul.

 

[bkboatnsleds]

No - its a total DIY install!!!

here's my video on how to do it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QywP...xt=C3ae40f8UDOEgsToPDskJUDSUnLc3FKHsT2iwbnw94

---------- Post added at 10:06 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:03 AM ----------

I think its a pretty general statement to say that any trailer over 2k lbs would need breaks.. I would say its more to the 3 - 3,500 lb limit

And needless to say but if the trailer has surge breaks - you need nothing to make these work.

 

[blrmkrl83]

Nice video. I have had a Prodigy contoller for 5 or 6 years and really like it. I found this site that gives the states towing regulations. http://www.towingworld.com/articles/TowingLaws.htm There's a few states that allow people to ride in a travel trailer. That's just stupid. Some require trailer brakes as low as 1500 lbs. I agree with 3000 lbs. being alright without brakes, I just didn't want to tell someone something was ok to do if it wasn't allowed. I have pulled a 6000 lb trailer without brakes before, but I definately wouldn't recommend that. Didn't stop worth a shit. Also some trailers have a tendancy to sway quit a bit and if you don't have a brake controller to stop the sway you might just end up in the ditch.

 

[WoldD90]

This is very simple... It all depends on what you are hauling and what type of trailer you are using. If you are hauling a heavy load, pick up a trailer brake controller and install it yourself. If you are hauling a light load, you probably will not need a controller.

It is best to get a controller that has a digital read out so you can better control the brakes. You want to feel a light grab when you press the brakes on a loaded trailer.